Romualdez calls for adherence to PWD VAT exemption law

MANILA, Philippines — House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Tuesday asked the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA)  if establishments are complying with the law  which exempts persons with disability (PWD) from paying value-added tax on some goods and services.

Romualdez asked the relevant committees of the House of the Representatives to investigate on some reports that this exemption is not sometimes followed.

“We want to know how the concerned people have been complying with this law. We should show malasakit over the plight of our PWDs,” Romualdez said.

According to the law, establishments must display signs detailing the benefits available to PWDs.

Tax incentives for those caring and living with PWDs up to the fourth degree of affinity or consanguinity are also covered.

Romualdez also said that authorities should also investigate cases where non-PWDs use these privileges.

“Only legitimate PWDs should benefit from the law,” he added.

In claiming these privileges, PWDs should present an ID from the Persons with Disability Affairs Office, the local Social Welfare Development Office where the PWD resides, a passport, or an ID issued by the NCDA.